Government spending for searching other life forms in our univers has increased significantly over the years, and this has resulted in some people suggesting to spend the money on improving the living condition of lives on Earth instead. However, I argue the money used for space exploration will have far more greater impact on humanity in the long run.
Every year, billions of dollars are given to space agencies and private contractors, and in the mean time people are struggling to get their basic needs mate. Thus, using the money to help those individuals seems more logical and urgent compared to the space programs. The money can also be utilized to fund programs that are fighting against climate change and other social issues. For instance, a financial support to researchs of alternative energy source will provide the world with solution for fossil fule.
With that being said, the government needs to look for solutions in all sectors including space exploration. In the past, studies conducted to look for life in other planets have resulted in better understanding of our own planet, and the technology developed for these studies has been utilized to solve problems here on Earth. For example, wireless power tools were first invented by NASA to use it in the ISS, but later got adopted into a consumer product everyone can benefits from.
In conclusion, while I understand the need to advocate for using the funds for solving issues in the world, I strongly believe it is better spent on exploring the universe because its long term impact on humanity is much greater.